Arch of Colors in Anatomic Pathology-Are They Most Significant in Inking of Surgical Margins?

Abstract

Introduction: In surgical pathology various colours are used as a surgical ink margins. The pathologists are known of the various advantages that colored inks contribute to anatomic pathology practice. The margins of each excised gross specimen colouring with different colours, add correctness to margin examination. It showed a three-dimensional microscopic restoration of features of the tumor and also anatomic structures. The use of multiple colours are orientation of grossed and dissected specimens, to re-examine the grossed specimen by the pathologist , if required, and if necessary further sampling of the specimen and also allow the postoperative comparison of tissue planes anticipated by preoperative imaging. Aim and Objective: A comparative study between Mashi(Indian Ink) and acrylic colors used as a surgical ink margin Materials and Methods: The study was done on 350 surgically excised medium, large and formalin-fix specimens. The surgical margins of each specimen were marked with Indian ink and five acrylic colors. The grossed specimens were then processed using routine histopathology techniques and sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin stain(H&E). The macroscopic and microscopic parameters were used to study the suitability of acrylic colors and Indian Ink (mashi) as surgical ink for margins. Results: The study noticed specific shades of acrylic colors that are easily available and simple to use, with good results on macroscopic and microscopic examination. Conclusion: Colored inks impart accuracy to margin examination. Acrylic colors are more suitable as surgical ink over Indian.